Gladys Freese

Gladys (Redmen) Freese, 99, of Ottawa, passed away on Friday, October 17, 2025 at her home surrounded by her family.

Funeral services will be at 12 noon on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at the Shrine of Rest Mausoleum at Oakwood Memorial Park with Rev. Ron Rock, officiating with entombment to follow. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 12 noon before the service at the mausoleum. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa.

Gladys was born on November 21, 1925 in Streator to Lyle and Grace (Martin) Redman. She was a graduate of Streator High School and worked at the La Salle County Farm Bureau and Freese Insurance in Grand Ridge. Gladys married Robert “Bob” Freese on November 28, 1945 in Ottawa. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Ottawa. Gladys loved to read, crochet, cook, and bake cookies. Gladys was admired for her pink mandevilles.

She is survived by her two sons, Robert “Kent” (Polly) Freese of Maysville, KY, Kevin (Pamela) Freese of Grand Ridge; three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren; her caregivers, Estela and Liz; and her beloved dog, Jingles.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lyle and Grace Redman; her husband, Robert C. Freese on August 11, 2020; a brother, Sam Redman; and two sisters, Donna Segovich and Aleta “Sis” Drysdale.

Memorials may be directed to the Grand Ridge Fire Department or a charity of the donor’s choice.

You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com. Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4433.